Definition

To act against something in order to balance or counteract it, often by providing an opposing force or influence.

Example

The new policy was designed to countervail the negative effects of the previous regulations.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I've been feeling really stressed about work lately.

I get that; sometimes you have to find ways to countervail that stress.

What do you usually do to manage it?

I like to exercise and spend time outdoors; it helps me balance things out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Countervail → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning against) and "vail" (from Latin "valere", meaning to be strong or to be worth). The word "countervail" means to act against something in order to offset or counterbalance it.

Memory Tip

Think of acting 'against' ('counter-') something that is 'strong' ('valere') to remember that countervail means to offset or counterbalance.

Visually Confused Words